Changing the Default Game Installation Drive on Windows 11
For PC gamers using Windows 11, managing storage effectively is crucial due to the large space requirements of modern games. By opting to change the default installation location for your games, you can help ensure that your primary system drive remains uncluttered, leading to improved performance. Below are the steps to adjust the game installation drive through the Microsoft Store and the Xbox app.
Why Change Your Game Install Location?
As of July 2, 2025, both the Microsoft Store and Xbox app default to the main drive where Windows is installed. While this is convenient for initial setups, the growing size of games can lead to substantial storage issues. By designating a secondary or external drive as your game installation location, you can significantly reduce space constraints and improve overall performance.
How to Change the Default Game Install Drive
There are two primary methods for changing your game installation location: through the Microsoft Store and the Xbox app. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it using each platform.
From the Microsoft Store
If you prefer installing games from the Microsoft Store, you’ll need at least one game installed to access the installation options. Here’s how to change the default drive during game installation:
Changing Installation Drive During Game Install
- Open Start on your Windows 11 device.
- Type Microsoft Store in the search bar and select the application from the results.
- Navigate to Gaming on the left sidebar.
- Find and click on the game you wish to install.
- Hit the Get or Install button.
- Option 1: Choose your preferred storage location directly.
- Option 2: Click “Change defaults in settings.” Note: You’ll need to revisit this page to proceed with installation.
- Access the Game installation options setting.
- Select the Install drive option to choose your storage for game downloads.
- Change the folder for installation by clicking the Change folder button.
- After selecting your desired folder, hit Select Folder.
- Enable the “Ask me these options on every game installation” toggle (recommended).
Once completed, all games and future installations will occupy the drive and folder you’ve designated.
Changing Storage from Store Settings
If you’re looking to modify the default drive settings after games have been installed, follow these steps:
- Open Start.
- Search for Microsoft Store, selecting the top entry.
- Access your Profile menu and navigate to Settings.
- Click on Game installation options.
- Select your desired install drive under the Install drive section.
- Change your installation folder using the Change folder button.
- After choosing your folder, press Select Folder.
- Enable the “Ask me these options on every game installation” toggle for convenience.
Following these steps ensures that any downloads from the Microsoft Store will automatically save to your selected storage location.
From the Xbox App
- Open Start.
- Search for Xbox and choose the application from the results.
- Click the profile menu in the top-left corner and select Settings.
- Go to Install Options.
- Under Game install options, select your default installation drive.
- Click on Change folder to pick your desired folder.
- Hit Select Folder.
- (Optional) Enable “Ask me for install options on every install” for each download.
After completion, your games will be installed to the newly specified folder. If you activated the prompt option, you’ll receive a notification each time you download a game.
Note: This guide has been updated to reflect the latest changes in the installation process as of July 2, 2025.
For more detailed guidance, visit this link.
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